- The decision to co-locate (all or part of) the data center facility can be risky. The decision to build vs. buy is one of cost – IT decision makers must put in the time and effort to gather requirements, determine the needs of the business, and select a co-location vendor to ensure the engagement is successful.
- Organizations struggle to differentiate vendors to choose the best fit. It is important that organizations outline their individual requirements in order to ensure that the most suitable vendor is selected.
- It is also extremely important that organizations foresee future needs. More organizations will require a hybrid model of services, including co-location, managed services, and cloud services. Select a vendor that can meet current and future needs.
Our Advice
Critical Insight
- Most mid-sized organizations begin with a co-location solution and evolve into a managed services or cloud solution. Therefore, it is important that vendors can provide a hybrid model to ensure that customers can evolve in the relationship.
- Many vendors in the co-location space have cut out their basic level of co-location service and are only offering managed services.
- There are three Tiers of vendors (based on size, geography, and market influence); the majority of mid-sized enterprises should concentrate on vendors that fall into the Tier 2 category. Generally, there is really no difference in capacity or capability in the market – just size.
Impact and Result
- Understand the importance of a hybrid model when considering your co-location vendor.
- Evaluate Canadian co-location/managed services vendors and services for your enterprise needs.
- Determine the requirements of your enterprise and ensure that the vendor meets them.